Viking Dishwasher Not Draining? Here’s What To Do!

Got a leaky dishwasher causing a kitchen flood? No sweat! I’ve got your back. 

The top reasons for a Viking dishwasher not draining are usually a clogged filter or drain pump causing the ruckus. Good news – fixing them is a breeze. Clean the filters or unclog the hoses, and you’re golden. Easy-peasy, right? If things are still acting up, it might be a pump issue, and that’s when you might need to call in pros. 

Either way, I’ll walk you through how to do all these fixes. I’ll get your kitchen mess-free, dry and happy again in no time. Let’s get started!

Why Is My Viking Dishwasher Not Draining?

If you’re puzzled by your Viking dishwasher’s drainage behavior, let’s dig a little deeper into how all of the issues I mentioned happened in the first place.

Reason 1: Viking Dishwasher Filter Is Dirty

A clogged filter often takes the blame when your Viking dishwasher appears to be sluggish in draining water. 

The filter’s job is to catch larger food particles, preventing them from blocking the drain pump. 

However, if the filter itself becomes clogged due to irregular cleaning, water can’t pass through smoothly, leading to water accumulation in the wash tub. 

Reason 2: Dishwasher Drain Hose Is Clogged

Finding a pool of water in your dishwasher often indicates a blocked drain hose. 

Larger food particles and debris that bypass the filter can find their way into this flexible plastic hose, creating barriers that hinder water drainage.

Reason 3: Air Gap or Garbage Disposal Issues

A garbage disposal or an air gap often shares a common drain with the dishwasher.

When they accumulate excessive debris, it can lead to a congested shared drain, causing water to retreat back into the dishwasher and potentially causing leaks.

Reason 4: Viking Dishwasher Drain Pump Has Failed

When other attempts fall short and your Viking dishwasher remains stubbornly undrained, the drain pump might be the culprit. 

This pump employs an impeller to expel water from the dishwasher through the drain hose.

If the pump motor falters or a component within the pump system malfunctions, water remains trapped. 

Viking Dishwasher Not Draining: Step-By-Step Solution

Encountering a situation where your Viking dishwasher isn’t cooperating with draining water can be frustrating. 

But don’t fret – there are some easy ways to address and rectify the usual suspects behind your dishwasher’s drainage concerns. 

Let’s do all the Viking dishwasher troubleshooting, step by step:

Cleaning Viking Dishwasher’s Dirty Filter

A filter that’s seen its fair share of action can contribute to your dishwasher’s drainage woes.

Here’s your course of action:

1. Pull off the bottom rack.
2. Give the coarse filter’s tabs a gentle squeeze and lift it away.
3. Rotate the fine filter counterclockwise and lift it upward.
4. Rinse both filters under running water, using a plastic brush to tackle any stubborn debris.
5. To restore order, twist the fine filter clockwise to secure it.
6. Secure the coarse filter by pushing it down until the tabs click.
7. Reintroduce the bottom rack into its designated spot.

How To Unclog A Viking Dishwasher Drain Hose

If you suspect a blockage, here’s your plan of action.

1. Begin by unplugging the dishwasher for safety reasons.
2. Consult your Viking dishwasher manual to locate the drain hose – it’s often behind a lower front panel.
3. Gently detach the hose from the drain pump.
4. Inspect the hose for visible clogs – you can use pliers or a straightened wire hanger to remove any obstructions.
5. If the clog remains elusive, disconnect the hose from the disposal or air gap to continue your investigation.
6. If you’re unable to clear the blockage, it may be time to consider a hose replacement.

Fixing Air Gap or Garbage Disposal Problem

If you suspect your issue is either of these, here’s what you can do: 

1. Before commencing a dishwasher cycle, run the disposal for 1-2 minutes to clear any lingering debris.
2. Clean up the air gap – remove the cover and give it a once-over with a paper towel.

Tackling Viking Dishwasher Drain Pump Failure

Worried something’s up with your drain pump? You can check it first. 

Test the drain pump motor’s continuity with a multimeter. An open circuit indicates a faulty motor that needs replacement. 

If your dishwasher’s control panel shows the pump is active but you don’t hear the motor running, it’s also a clear sign of malfunction.

Here’s how to fix a drain pump issue:

1. Unplug your dishwasher before starting any work.
2. Locate the drain pump, usually at the dishwasher’s bottom. You might need to remove the lower front panel.
3. Gently detach the pump from its mountings, which could involve screws or clips.
4. Get a compatible replacement pump for your Viking dishwasher.
5. Connect the new pump’s electrical wires securely.
6. Position the new pump and secure it with screws or clips.
7. Plug in your dishwasher.
8. Run a test cycle to ensure the new pump effectively drains water.

Viking Dishwasher Drain Pump Replacement Cost

On average, getting that drain pump replaced in your Viking dishwasher could set you back anywhere from around $150 to $300. 

This includes the price of the replacement pump itself, as well as what you’d pay for a pro to handle the installation. 

Remember, prices can shift based on where you live and which repair service you go with.

Make sure you go for the real deal – a genuine Viking replacement part. 

Sure, there might be cheaper alternatives out there, but those authentic parts are built to fit just right and work like they’re supposed to.

Tips To Prevent Draining Issues In Viking Dishwashers

Keeping your Viking dishwasher in the drainage groove is simpler than it sounds. 

Check out these easy-peasy tips to keep your dishes moving along without any drain troubles:

• Give Your Filter Some Love: Once in a while, show your dishwasher’s filter some attention. A quick clean every month keeps the drain happy and water flowing freely.
• Scraping Is Cool: Give your plates a light scrape before loading them. It’s like a drain-friendly handshake – helps prevent those big food bits from clogging things up.
• Clear the Drain Zone: Keep an eye on the area around the drain. A quick check for debris before you start the cycle can save you from drain troubles later.
• Do Hose Checks: Take a peek at the drain hose every so often – make sure it’s not bent out of shape or clogged. A clear hose means smooth sailing for the drain.
• Don’t Overpack: Sure, we all want to fit in as much as we can. But if you stuff the dishwasher, water won’t drain properly. Give those dishes some space to breathe.
• Use Rinse Aid: Rinse aid isn’t just a fancy name. It helps dishes dry better and keeps your drain happy. Use it, and you’ll avoid clogs and wet surprises.
• Disposal High-Five: Got a garbage disposal? Run it before your dishwasher does its thing. It’s like giving the drain a little pep talk before the game.
• Air Gap Check-In: If you’ve got an air gap, remember to keep it clean. No debris means the drain can do its job without any hiccups.
• Choose the Right Suds: Pick a dishwasher detergent that plays nice with your machine. No weird residue means no drain issues.

FAQs

Can I fix a Viking dishwasher not draining issue myself, or should I call a professional?

It depends. Simple issues like cleaning filters or checking hoses are DIY-friendly. But if it’s a complex internal problem, a professional might be the best call.

Can hard water contribute to my Viking dishwasher not draining properly?

Yep, hard water can lead to buildup and clogs, affecting drainage in your Viking dishwasher.

Can a malfunctioning garbage disposal cause my Viking dishwasher not to drain?

Absolutely, a wonky garbage disposal can mess with the draining process in your Viking dishwasher.

Final Thoughts

There you go – with these fixes, you’ve got the secret sauce to a smoothly draining Viking dishwasher. 
Say goodbye to standing water and hello to hassle-free dishwashing!

Just don’t forget to follow my tips, you don’t want to end up cleaning both your dishwasher and your dishes by hand, after all.